The parents of recently injured Deputy Wesley Atha have organized a fundraising campaign to purchase these vests for every county deputy. Their fundraising goal is $113,000. Each vest costs between $500-$700, depending on the size. Each Friday The Covington News will publish a list of individuals, businesses and civic groups who have donated to the cause that week as well as the total amount raised. Donations are tax deductible. Checks should be made payable to Newton Co. Sheriff's Office and earmarked for safety vests and equipment. Please mail donations to NCSO c/o April Jones, 15151 Alcovy ...

Monday night members of Solid Rock Baptist Church held a fireworks display for 9-year-old Kristin Beaucher. Kristin passed away from complications with a brain tumor early this week. Solid Rock members hoped she could look down on the display.

The Newton County Sheriff's Office will offer an amnesty program from Dec. 11, 2009, through Jan. 15, 2010. The Newton County Sheriff's Office amnesty program will allow individuals listed with outstanding misdemeanor warrants to turn themselves in. Each person will be released on their own recognizance after bringing documentation which proves a valid address. Proof of valid address can be in the form of an electric bill, gas bill or water bill. If possible a valid driver's license is preferred. Processing will take place at the Newton County Sheriff's Office Detention Center. This process should take ...

Like a fairy tale cottage, the original Burge House sits surrounded by forest. Across the street from its original location, a bigger home has been erected and stands proudly on the land that has bore the Burge name since the 1830s. The original house, now a private residence, turned 200-years-old this November, celebrating a monumental anniversary in Newton County.

The Arts Association in Newton County presents the Covington Regional Ballet's annual performance of The Nutcracker on Saturday and Sunday at Newton High School's Porter Hall. This year's performance features guest dancer Adam Schiffer of the Carolina Ballet.

Darrell Antonio Crowder pleaded guilty to malice murder and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony Monday in connection with the 2008 killing of his estranged wife, 43-year-old Catcilia.

Rachel Scott of Social Circle is the proud breeder and owner of Alexis Acres' The Scotsman, who was recently named training level World Champion at the 37th annual Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show in Oklahoma City.

Special delivery: On Nov. 5 Covington Post Master Shane Williams hosted an appreciation luncheon to present post office employees, past employees and surviving spouses of retired employees as well as veterans young and old. Covington Mayor Pro-Tem Hawnethia Williams shared her memories of past postal employees. Jackie B. Smith, clerk for Newton County Board of Commissioners, issued a proclamation from the BOC on behalf of all the retired postal workers and their families. The Rev. Hezekiah Benton of Bethlehem Baptist Church shared his thoughts America's veterans and gave thanks over the meal and for the postal employees.